Can you bring a snow globe on a plane? TSA rules
The short answer
Sometimes. TSA allows a snow globe in carry-on bags only if it appears to hold less than 3.4 oz of liquid and the entire globe, including the base, fits in your quart-sized, resealable plastic bag. Snow globes are allowed in checked bags.
Carry-on
TSA says snow globes that appear to contain less than 3.4 ounces of liquid (approximately tennis ball size) can be packed in your carry-on bag only if the entire snow globe, including the base, is able to fit into your one quart-sized, resealable plastic bag.
Checked bags
TSA lists snow globes as allowed in checked bags.
Quick summary
- Under 3.4 oz of liquid and fits in your quart bag, base included: carry-on yes.
- Larger than that: pack it in a checked bag.
- Each passenger can bring one quart-sized bag of liquids in a carry-on.
At the checkpoint
The final decision always rests with the TSA officer at the checkpoint.
Sources: TSA: Snow Globes. Read 5 November 2026. Rules and fees change, so check the official page before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
Can I bring a large snow globe in my carry-on?
No. TSA allows only small ones that appear to hold under 3.4 oz of liquid and fit in your quart-sized bag.
How big is 3.4 ounces of liquid for a snow globe?
TSA says approximately tennis ball size.
Does the base count?
Yes. TSA says the entire snow globe, including the base, must fit in the quart-sized bag.
Can I put a snow globe in checked luggage?
Yes. TSA lists snow globes as allowed in checked bags.
Do snow globes count under the liquids rule?
Yes for carry-on. TSA says only snow globes that fit in your one quart-sized resealable bag, with under 3.4 oz of liquid, can go in the cabin.